Western Watts

Cybersecurity is no longer just about keeping bad actors out. It's about being ready to respond when they get in. In this episode of Western Watts, Chief Information & Technology Officer Dom Maddalone discusses the evolving cyber threats facing electric utilities, how AI is changing both cyberattacks and cyber defenses, and what Tri-State is doing to protect critical infrastructure. From phishing scams and ransomware to grid resilience and industry collaboration, Dom offers an inside look at the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of cybersecurity in the energy sector.

“It's just this really beautiful world of really incredibly kind people who care about their community, who care about democracy, who care about education.”— Lauren Vernon, Government Relations AdvisorGo behind the scenes with Tri-State's Government Relations team as they share what it's really like to advocate for cooperative communities. From wildfire liability and educating policymakers about the cooperative model to an inside look at legislative sessions, this episode highlights the work being done to protect and strengthen Tri-State and our members.

Keeping the power on often requires long days, tough conditions, and strong leadership in the field. In this episode, Line Foreman Adrian Garcia takes us inside his current work along the Frontier–Picacho transmission line in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Adrian shares how he leads crews maintaining and restoring critical transmission infrastructure—and why their work is essential to system reliability for the communities our members serve.

From breakers to protective relays, reliable power depends on experts who know every detail of the system. As a Substation Technician, John Swanson works at facilities like the Cahone Substation, helping ensure our transmission system operates safely and efficiently each day. In this episode, John offers insight into his role at substations and how they help deliver power to our members. 

Reliable power starts with reliable communication. In this episode, Telecommunications Foreman Nick Franklin takes us behind the scenes of the systems that keep remote locations connected across the transmission network. From maintaining critical infrastructure to supporting safe, dependable power delivery, Nick’s work plays a vital role in keeping energy flowing where it’s needed most.

In this episode of Western Watts, hosts Elizabeth Schilling and Julia Eshleman sit down with Travis Berg, Vice President of Transmission Maintenance at Tri‑State, for an inside look at the people and systems that keep the power flowing. Travis breaks down how Tri-State's transmission line, substation, and telecommunication department work together across our four states, and why much of this critical work happens far from public view. From wildfire response and storm restoration to safety and leadership, the conversation highlights the skill, dedication, and teamwork behind grid reliability. It’s a powerful reminder that keeping the lights on takes far more than meets the eye, and that these transmission workers and their families all play a vital role. 

What do river rapids, rural Colorado, and the future of Western water policy all have in common? In this episode of Western Watts, hosts Elizabeth Shilling and Julia Eshleman interview Jackie Brown, the Senior Water and Natural Resource Policy Advisor at Tri-State. Jackie shares her extensive background in water policy and natural resource management, detailing her journey from raft guiding to her current role.  The conversation delves into the complexities of water management in the Western United States, the history and impact of water rights, and Tri-State's efforts in balancing industrial use with environmental stewardship. Topics include the significance of water in rural Colorado, the challenges posed by drought, legislative efforts to protect water rights, and practical tips for water conservation. 

What happens when parts of the Western grid aren’t fully connected — and how do we fix it? In this episode of Western Watts, hosts Elizabeth Schilling and Julia Eshleman sit down with Tri‑State CEO Duane Highley to explore how regional transmission organizations (RTOs) can help mend the gap between fragmented power systems in the West. Duane breaks down what RTOs are, why coordination across state lines matters, and how joining the Southwest Power Pool (SPP) RTO will benefit communities across Colorado, New Mexico, Nebraska, and Wyoming. From lowering long‑term costs and improving reliability to smarter transmission planning and better use of existing resources, this conversation gets to the heart of how a more connected grid can work better for everyone.🎧 Tune in to learn how regional collaboration is shaping the future of energy in the West.

From planning the environment to shaping the future of energy.Jennifer Prokop joins Elizabeth Shilling and Julia Eshelman on Western Watts to share how Tri-State’s Demand Response program is transforming grid reliability and cutting costs for members. Discover the innovative strategies behind smart thermostats, irrigation management, and industrial load adjustments, and learn why collaboration and education are key to powering communities across the rural West. 

Ever wondered how batteries could reshape the future of energy? Join Elizabeth Shilling and Julia Eshelman as they interview Sarah Ruen, Vice President of Regulatory and Origination at Tri-State, discussing the evolving role of battery storage in energy management. They cover topics such as the benefits of battery storage, the integration of renewable resources, utility-scale battery operation, and the challenges and strategies involved in implementing new battery projects. Their conversation highlights the importance of battery technology in stabilizing the grid, increasing the efficiency of renewable energy, and ensuring system reliability. The discussion also touches on the future potential and ongoing efforts to adapt to new technologies in the cooperative energy sector.